Universal Credit rent

SIR – Your report, headed “Number of Tory rebels doubles over Universal Credit roll-out” (October 9), quotes a Department for Work and Pensions spokesman as saying: “In situations where it is necessary, we make arrangements for [claimants’] rent to be paid directly to landlords.”

This fails to recognise that, for many landlords, applying for direct payment to them because of rent arrears can be a long process.

In a survey of our members, 44 per cent said that the application process is difficult and 45 per cent said they found the DWP either unhelpful or very unhelpful when contacted about a Universal Credit tenant.

Given the importance of private rented housing for Universal Credit claimants, the Government should follow Scotland’s lead and give tenants the option of their rent being paid directly to their landlord.

Alan Ward

Chairman, Residential Landlords’ Association, Manchester